Derailment sends multiple railcars into Clark Fork River

A Montana Rail Link freight train derailed in Sanders County on Sunday morning, sending multiple railcars into the Clark Fork River.

Initial reports indicated no one was injured in the incident along Montana 135 near Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort between Paradise and St. Regis.

Debris was strewn below some of the wrecked railcars, including Coors beer cans. At least a dozen railcars were involved.

Officials with Montana Rail Link were working to determine the cause. Company spokesperson Andy Garland said there are no risks to public safety, and no Hazmat release associated with the derailment.

Garland said the train was traveling westbound Sunday at 9 a.m. when a portion of the train derailed.

"We are committed to addressing any impacts to the area as a result of this accident, prioritizing the safety of our employees and the public, and understanding the reasons for this incident,” Garland stated in a media release.

Officials with the rail company and other first responders were on site Sunday afternoon.

Montana Rail Link is a Class II regional railroad that operates 937 route miles of track in Montana and Idaho.